Margaret Island, River island in Budapest, Hungary
Margaret Island is a river island between Buda and Pest that stretches about 2.5 kilometers in length and sits amid flowing water on both sides. Two main bridges link it to the city, and the island contains walking paths, gardens, thermal pools, and the remains of older structures from different times.
The island was once called Island of Rabbits but took its present name from Saint Margaret, daughter of King Béla IV, who lived in a convent here during the medieval period. This religious chapter left a lasting mark on the place and shaped how the city viewed it.
Today the island serves as a gathering place where locals and visitors walk, cycle, and enjoy outdoor activities in the shade of old trees. The name connects to Saint Margaret, whose presence here centuries ago gave the place spiritual meaning for the city.
Cars are banned from the island, so most visitors arrive on foot, by bicycle, or using public transport across the bridges. Bicycle rentals are available, and the flat paths make it easy to get around and explore different areas at your own pace.
Natural hot springs feed the water features on the island, supplying warm water to the pools and baths, and it holds one of the city's largest outdoor water parks. This hidden geothermal activity beneath the surface makes the island special for swimmers and bathers.
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